On Friday, March 7, members of the Benalla community will come together to commemorate this significant global event.
The breakfast, held at the Marie Madeleine Centre at FCJ College, will feature a panel of remarkable FCJ College alumni, each of whom has carved a path in fields ranging from medicine to agriculture, sport and health.
This year’s theme ‘Accelerate Action’ calls on all of us to take swift, deliberate steps toward achieving gender equality.
An FCJ College spokesperson said women around the world continue to face barriers in the workplace, the home and in wider society.
“It’s vital that we not only acknowledge these struggles but take concrete action to dismantle them,” the spokesperson said.
“The breakfast aims to spark a sense of urgency and purpose, as attendees hear directly from inspiring women who have not only succeeded but also championed change in their respective fields.”
The speakers include:
- FCJ College alumni Melissa McGauran, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, whose work empowers women to make informed decisions about their health.
- Hannah Edgley, a trailblazing jockey who has proven that gender is no barrier to success in the traditionally male-dominated world of horse racing.
- Ali Muller, an ANZ agribusiness assistant manager and farmer, whose story highlights the importance of women’s voices in shaping the future of Australian agriculture.
- Shannah Bird, an occupational therapist, dedicated to improving the lives and well-being of individuals in her community.
These women represent a small but powerful sample of the contributions women make every day in various sectors of society.
Their stories are sure to inspire all those who attend, especially as they reflect on the personal and professional challenges they have overcome in their journeys.
“Adding a personal touch to this special event, the breakfast will be led by our Year 12 students, who will attend with a significant woman in their life,” the spokesperson said.
“These young women will have the honour of hosting the Q&A session, providing a unique opportunity for our students to engage with the panel and lead meaningful discussions on how we can all contribute to accelerating gender equality.
“Their involvement reinforces the importance of mentorship, guidance and support in empowering the next generation of women leaders.”
Breakfast will be provided by Goldhammer Catering, and tickets are available for $25 per person via https://www.ticketebo.com.au/iwd2025
The event is open to the public, so attendees are encouraged to bring friends, family, or colleagues.
Special group bookings are also available, offering the chance to reserve a table for up to eight people.
This event is an important moment for the Benalla community to come together, to listen, to learn and most importantly, to act.
It’s an opportunity to show solidarity for women’s rights, to reflect on the progress made, and to commit to taking concrete steps toward a more equitable future.
